Three U.S. Marines were found dead in a car at a gas station in Hampstead, North Carolina. The victims have been identified as Marine Corps Lance Corporals Tanner J. Kaltenberg, Merax C. Dockery, and Ivan R. Garcia. All three were motor vehicle operators with Combat Logistics Battalion 2. Investigations are ongoing, and condolences have been extended to their families and colleagues. Prayers have also been requested for the fallen Marines. Rodney Overton reported
Three U.S. Marines stationed at Camp Lejune in North Carolina were found dead in a car at a gas station in Hampstead over the weekend. The victims have been identified as Lance Corporals Tanner J. Kaltenberg, Merax C. Dockery, and Ivan R. Garcia.
The car was discovered in the parking lot of a Speedway gas station on US Highway 17. The Pender County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene after the bodies were found just after 9 a.m. on Sunday. The investigation lasted for several hours.
Lance Corporal Kaltenberg was 19 years old and hailed from Madison, Wisconsin. Lance Corporal Dockery, 23, was from Pottawatomie, Oklahoma, and Lance Corporal Garcia, also 23, was from Naples, Florida. All three Marines were motor vehicle operators with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group.
Brigadier General Michael E. McWilliams, commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, expressed his condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased Marines. He also asked for prayers for the families and friends of the victims.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of the Marines have not been disclosed, and the investigation is ongoing. The tragic loss of these young servicemen has sent shockwaves through the community and the Marine Corps. Senator Ted Budd of North Carolina also expressed his condolences and called for prayers for the fallen Marines.
As more details emerge, it is important to remember and honor the sacrifice these Marines made in service to their country. The loss of any servicemember is a profound tragedy, and their memories will be cherished by their loved ones and fellow Marines..
- Speedway gas station at NC coast
- Camp Lejune-based U.S. Marines
- Car found dead at gas station.
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